Kamifurano, town in Kamikawa Subprefecture, Hokkaidō, Japan
Kamifurano is a small town in central Hokkaido surrounded by mountains and extensive fields used mainly for farming and flower cultivation. Simple, practical buildings line quiet streets, and during warmer months the colorful flower fields including lavender spread across the landscape.
This town developed as a settlement in Hokkaido's mountainous region where families cultivated crops and raised animals for generations. Its growth remained tied to farming practices that shaped both the landscape and daily rhythms of the community.
The name Kamifurano comes from Ainu words meaning upper and wild place, reflecting the mountainous terrain that shaped settlement. Today visitors observe how locals gather for seasonal festivals with traditional foods and simple celebrations that honor their farming heritage.
The best way to explore is on foot or by bicycle to see the quiet streets and surrounding fields at a leisurely pace. Spending at least a few hours or staying overnight allows visitors to fully experience the peaceful atmosphere and observe how the landscape changes with seasons.
The town has its own mascot character named Labeton, a lavender-colored pig that appears at local events and helps make the area welcoming for children and families. This character represents the town's connection to lavender growing and local hot springs.
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